UK workers less engaged than European counterparts

Only 24% of UK employees are committed to their jobs, compared with as many as 45% in Denmark, 42% in Norway and 37% in Russia, the latest findings from the Kelly Global Workforce Index reveal today.

Only a third of employees feel valued by their employers, with a third feeling less loyal to their employers compared with last year. As a result, 67% plan to look for a job in the year ahead, with 44% frequently thinking about quitting. Nearly half are looking for new opportunities, even when they are happy in their jobs, and of these, as many as 72% will actively look for a job at least once a week.

In terms of what they look for in a new employer, 81% are motivated by salary and benefits however many do have strong ambitions for career progression, with training and development being important for 65% and opportunities for advancement key for 59%. Gen Y were particularly keen on training, with 71% stating this as a priority.

Interestingly half of those polled mentioned that the opportunity to work with colleagues from whom they could learn would help influence their employment decision, suggesting the importance of peer learning.

“Engagement levels are comparatively low in the UK compared with other European markets and it’s clear that more needs to be done by employers to provide an environment that will help to retain staff in the long term. This will become even more critical as the war for talent intensifies.

“Our findings show that while salary and benefits are central to an employee’s priorities training and development, advancement and learning from others are all crucial in their job decision, suggesting an ambitious workforce that is eager to learn and progress – something all employers should look to capitalise on.”

When searching and applying for jobs, 85% of employees are using digital applications. Despite the increase in online applications, only a third will use social media in their job search. In addition, only 15% of candidates have taken part in an employer’s online talent community, yet 33% would be interested in doing so if the opportunity arose.

The complete findings are published in a new report, Engaging Active and Passive Job Seekers